Zelensky’s Statement:
“Emmanuel met with other European leaders, where they discussed global affairs, the situation in Europe, and, most importantly, security guarantees for Ukraine.”
During their dialogue, Zelensky emphasized that both he and Macron share a common perspective: Ukraine requires strong and dependable security guarantees.
Zelensky’s Direct Statement:
“Any alternative resolution that lacks such guarantees, such as a fragile ceasefire, would merely serve as another deception by Russia and a precursor to renewed aggression against Ukraine or other European nations.”
Kellogg’s remarks surprised European leaders by implying that Europe would not be directly involved in future negotiations to end the Russian-Ukrainian war.
While the U.S. position on peace talks includes Ukraine’s participation, European representatives from the U.S. were notably absent from discussions.
Kellogg made these statements during the “Ukrainian Luncheon,” an event organized by the Victor Pinchuk Foundation at the Munich Security Conference.
When questioned about European involvement in future peace discussions, Kellogg insisted that Ukraine would be included:
“The U.S. has never suggested that Ukrainians should be excluded from negotiations,” he affirmed commitment to Ukraine’s participation in peace talks.
However, Kellogg refrained from mentioning the role of other European nations. When asked to clarify, he described himself as a “realist,” stating that while he was not fundamentally opposed to European involvement, he did not see the necessity of including those he perceived as “part of the problem.”
“Remember Minsk II – many European leaders were involved, and they failed disastrously,” Kellogg stated, explaining his viewpoint.
This stance starkly contrasts with that of the European Union, which maintains that any peace agreement must include Europe as an active participant.
“I am pleased that President Macron has gathered our leaders in Paris,” Sikorski stated, adding that Trump’s diplomatic style mirrors the Russian concept of “reconnaissance by combat”—applying pressure to test reactions before altering positions. “We must respond accordingly,” Sikorski warned.
Two EU officials confirmed that the Paris summit would take place on Monday. However, it remains uncertain whether all EU leaders will attend or if participation will be limited to a select group.
Meanwhile, media reports indicate that the U.S. has distributed a questionnaire to European governments, inquiring about their potential contributions to Ukraine’s security guarantees.
French Minister for Overseas Territories Manuel Valls highlighted a turning point in Europe’s relations with the U.S., asserting that the situation compels Europe to bolster its defense spending and commitment to Ukraine’s security more than ever before.